2010 Cadillac SRX Gets Redesigned, Hybrid Coming Soon

Buyers on the lookout for an SUV that isn’t too big, isn’t too thirsty and might even offer a hybrid option were give a fresh choice this week thanks to Cadillac’s decision to showcase the 2010 Cadillac SRX at the New York Auto Show. Previous versions of the SRX attempted to combine the large, square greenhouse of a traditional American station wagon with a heavy dose of Cadillac’s edgy, angular exterior styling. The result was a somewhat confused body shape that turned off nearly as many buyers as it attracted.

The new SRX is an entirely different story, however. Borrowing a page out of the design chapbooks belong to both Lexus and Acura, the 2010 edition of the crossover has a decidedly windswept appearance, with a much better integration of Cadillac’s signature style points. Gone is the bulky rear and in its place can be found a roofline that gracefully tapers down to meet the rising rear haunch of the vehicle. A major effect of the visual redesign is that it slims the vehicle to the point where it compares much more attractively with the Acura RDX and the Lexus RX crossovers, which are sold at a price and features point that makes more sense for Cadillac.

What else will new crossover buyers find intriguing about the fresh 2010 Cadillac SRX? The two announced power plants offer much more promise for both power and efficiency. A 3.0 liter V6 capable of 265 horsepower and 223 lb-ft of torque will be found motivating the base model, while a turbocharged, 2.8 liter V6 will crank out 300 horses and 295 lb-ft of torque for those families that are really on the go. 6-speed automatics are of course standard equipment, and all-wheel drive is available.

The most intriguing news surrounding the 2010 SRX was the announcement that Cadillac intends to borrow the 2-Mode gasoline / electric hybrid power train used in newer GM products and drop it between the front fenders of the new crossover. The 2-Mode goes beyond the regular mild hybrid system found throughout the General Motors lineup. Instead of merely shutting down the engine at stoplights, the SRX will be able to make use of battery power to actually motivate the vehicle at lower speeds, as well as provide assistance during heavier acceleration. Of course, fuel mileage will be decidedly improved over the outgoing model.

Perhaps the most encouraging news for potential crossover shoppers is that the 2010 Cadillac SRX will be priced below the previous generation of vehicle. Starting at below $34,000, the SRX’s aggressive sticker indicates just how serious Cadillac has become about making up for lost ground in the mid-size SUV / crossover segment. This price is cheaper than much of the competition, which hopefully will help the company make in-roads amongst new buyers. The appearance of a new luxury option should be welcomed both by those previously kept away by the older SRX’s polarizing looks, as well as buyers looking to break free from the staid, unimaginative designs offered by some of the Japanese car companies vying for a piece of the upscale crossover pie.